Question

List the steps of preparation of temporary mount of a leaf peel to observe stomata.

Answer 1

The steps involved in the preparation of temporary leaf mount to view stomata under the light power microscope are following:

1) Remove a healthy leaf from the potted plant.

2) Remove a part of the peel from the lower surface of the leaf. The peel can be removed by folding the leaf over and gently pulling the peel apart using forceps. Place the peel in a watch glass containing water.

3) Put few drops of safranin stain in the watch glass.

4) After 2-3 minutes, approximately take out the peel and place it on a clean glass slide.

5) Put a drop of glycerin over the peel and place a clean coverslip gently over it with the help of a needle to avoid any kind of air bubbles.

6) Remove the excess stain and glycerin with the help of blotting paper.

7) Observe the slide under the low-power and high-power magnifications of the compound microscope.